College of DuPage bucks state trends

Coming off an exceptional fall enrollment, College of DuPage is the only community college district in the state of Illinois with an increase in Full-Time Equivalent Student (FTES) enrollment for the spring 2014 term, according to figures released by the Illinois Community College Board.

One of 39 Illinois community college districts, COD had a 1.8 percent increase in FTES for the spring 2014 semester and reported a total headcount (full- and part-time students) of 28,100, the highest ever total headcount enrollment for a spring semester. This increase comes on the heels of a 7.6 percent increase in FTES enrollment in fall 2013. Across the state, spring enrollment is down an average 6.7 percent, according to the ICCB, with enrollment decreases ranging from -3.9 percent to -17.8 percent.

"While College of DuPage is seeing continued success in attracting students, the ICCB reports that spring enrollments across the state are the lowest in more than a decade," said COD President Dr. Robert L. Breuder. "The College added 277 students this spring over last and added 269 more FTES, making this the second highest spring FTES count in COD's history."

The Colleges enrollment success is due to several initiatives, Dr. Breuder noted. College of DuPage offers innovative academics, including 3+1 programs that allow students to earn a four-year degree through partnering institutions without leaving the COD campus.

As part of $650 million in construction, the College also recently reopened three of its facilities -- the McAninch Arts Center, Physical Education Center and Library -- after complete renovations, providing the best teaching and learning facilities for students.

"Students realize the value of a College of DuPage education, made evident by our enrollment numbers," Dr. Breuder said. "This is further proof that we are realizing our vision of becoming the primary college district residents choose for high quality education. More and more students and their parents understand they can achieve their educational goals right here."